Governor Cuomo announced $2 million in NY Works funding would be provided to inspect and analyze dams across New York State, to ensure they meet safety standards and protect residents, homes and property from storms and floods. The funding includes $1 million for inspections of 50 state-owned dams and $1 million for specific projects at 4 dams in Franklin, Essex and Chenango Counties including the Chenango & Wildlife Pond Dam.

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In observance of National Fire Prevention Month and National Fire Prevention Week, the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York is asking residents to remember basic fire safety rules that can help save lives. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 2/3^rd of fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or alarms that did not function properly. Smoke detectors should be installed inside and outside every bedroom and sleeping area and on every level of the building. More information on Fire Prevention Week is available at nfpa.org.

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State Police at Norwich arrested 39-year-old Stephanie Franklin of New Berlin for DWI with a BAC result of .16%, twice the legal limit, following a traffic stop for talking on a cell phone while driving on State Route 320 in Norwich. Franklin was issued tickets for town of Norwich Court October 23rd.

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Firefighters from Walton & surrounding areas responded to a structure fire this morning. The fire was located at 104 Saint John Street in the village of Walton; firefighters from trout creek & Delhi have also responded.

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Sidney village officials announced that village crews would be flushing hydrants this week between the hours of 7:00 AM to 3:30 pm. Hydrant flushing began today and will be completed Friday afternoon.

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The Chenango Arts council announces that they have booked the Colonia Theater in Norwich, for their “Chenango Film Series” starting on October 15^th. Council director Diane Batson-Smith told WCDO News about the series:

(Diane Batson-Smith 10-6-14)

Memberships or more information about the Chenango arts council programs are available at Chenango arts.org or at 336-2787.

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New York State makes more money off of gambling than any other state, but spends far less to fight gambling addiction. The state currently sets aside 2.2 million dollars annual fro programs to address compulsive gambling. 4 additional casinos have been authorized for upstate, with a state panel reviewing 16 proposals, they are expected to make an announcement about the winning proposals in the coming weeks, the new casinos will kick in 3.5 million dollars a year to go for gambling addiction programs, which will then make the state a leader in compulsive gambling programs.

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Governor Cuomo stated that there is no reason for New Yorkers to be alarmed about the Ebola Virus, and the state is ready to respond to any reported cases. Cuomo said that the state has worked diligently to understand & prepare for the virus; he said that there is no reason for alarm even though the state is an international destination and transportation hub.